According to the Mayo Clinic, there are multiple types of skin burns including minor burns and serious burns. The classifications of minor burns include first-degree or second-degree burns. When these minor burns cover an area of the skin that is larger than 3 inches, the burn is considered a serious second-degree burn. The most severe type of burn is a third-degree burn, which leaves permanent tissue damage. Assessing the damage is the best way to identify the type of skin burn experienced.
First-Degree Burn
A first-degree burn is the least serious of the three types. Individuals with this type of burn experience damage to the outer layer of the skin only. According to the Mayo Clinic, the skin is often red, swollen and sometimes painful. The skin tissue is often still intact as it has not been burned through. Case Western Reserve University points out that first-degree burns consist of the least amount of destruction and often result from prolonged exposure to low-intensity heat or short exposure to high-intensity heat. A sun burn can be considered a first-degree burn. Treatment of this type of burn is often done at home. According to the Family Doctor Organization, home treatment may include soaking the affected area in cool water, applying a skin care product like aloe vera with gauze or a bandage and the use of an oral pain reliever.
Second-Degree Burn
Worse than a first-degree burn, the second-degree burn will burn through the first layer of skin. The skin may blister with intense redness on the skin with patches or a splotchy skin, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic. Case Western Reserve University points out that as the skin is burned away the nerves are exposed and this leads to more extreme pain. They indicate that this type of burn takes 10 to 15 days to heal and lasting pigment changes are possible. Treatment of a second-degree burn is similar to a first-degree but medical attention is important to prevent infection. Follow a doctor's guidelines and keep the wound clean with antibiotic ointment, clean bandages and pain reliever, as suggested by the Family Doctor Organization.
Third-Degree Burn
The most serious of the three types of burns is the third-degree type. Tissue damage is often permanent and includes the skin, fat, muscle and even bone, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic. The skin may appear black, charred, dry or white. An individual may experience trouble breathing due to smoke inhalation or other toxic effects from the fire or burning substance, states the Mayo Clinic. This serious type of burn may not heal for many months and often requires medical treatment for full recovery, as reported by Case Western Reserve University. Medical treatment is necessary for third-degree burns, as stated by the Family Doctor Organization.
